Albion hope to make at least two signings before the transfer window closes - with the Baggies aiming to lure Stephane Sessegnon from Sunderland and to tie up the Morgan Amalfitano deal.

Marseille midfielder Amalfitano was due in England last night with a view to signing a loan deal with the club.

The France international can play anywhere across the midfield, including as a wide man.

And the news Albion are keen on Sessegnon is also bound to enthuse Baggies fans still reeling from Sunday’s defeat to Swansea.

The 29-year-old, who was dropped from Sunderland’s squad as a punishment for a drink-driving charge, has been told he can leave the Stadium of Light.

Albion still have one domestic loan deal left, although they are expected to try to sign the forward on a permanent deal.

If so Albion will need to pay in the region of £5million for him, which would make him the club’s record signing.

He would also be the first ‘cash’ signing of the summer.

The Baggies have looked into a potential loan deal for Demba Ba, although the feedback is that he would prefer to go elsewhere.

Albion are also on the lookout for another goalkeeper due to Ben Foster's lay-off.

Steve Clarke was hoping for good news on the transfer front.

“I spoke at length on Thursday about the need to bring fresh faces into the group,” said the Baggies boss

“The club, the chairman, Richard (Garlick), Mark Jenkins (chief executive) are working hard – and have been working hard this week – to try and do the deals that will make this squad better and more competitive.

“Now, with just under 24 hours to go, hopefully some of those deals are starting to come to fruition.

“I think we’re close to one or two.

“Hopefully between now and 11pm there will be some good news for the supporters because the supporters need some good news.

“I think the squad needs some good news, the fans need some good news and even I could do with some good news.”

Meanwhile, it is looking increasingly likely that Cardiff are edging the race for Peter Odemwingie.

The Welsh club are one of three clubs to have made offers in the region of £2million for the striker.

Swansea and Stoke are also keen, but both are reluctant to pay more for the 32-year-old.

The Baggies were seeking around £4million for the Nigerian, but it seems a slightly lower compromise might be agreed between Albion and the Premier League newcomers.